Arizona Initiative Seeks Independence From National Health Reforms
The Arizona Republic reports that state legislators advanced a proposal on Tuesday that would ensure that Arizona residents maintain the right to opt out of any new federal or universal health care system. "House Concurrent Resolution 2014 would amend the state Constitution by barring any rules or regulations that force Arizonans to participate in a health-care system, government-run or otherwise," the Arizona Republic reports.
"Proposal supporters say it's about preserving individual choice when it comes to health-care decisions. Opponents call it a pre-emptive attack on health-care reform yet to emerge from Congress." The measure, which is slated to appear on the 2010 ballot, will next be considered by the full House and, if approved, would then head to the Senate. HCR 2014 is similar to another measure narrowly rejected by Arizona voters last year. The Arizona Republic notes, "Many questions remain, including whether an amendment to one state's Constitution takes precedence over the federal government's actions" (Benson, 5/27).
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